Library News

International Children’s Book Day is here! 

Taking place this Saturday 2 April, International Children’s Book Day is designed to promote a love of reading in young people. Each year, a different international section of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), selects a theme. 

This year’s theme of Stories are wings that help you soar every day, was chosen by the 2022 host country, Canada, and features the following poem from author, Richard Van Camp, with his message about reading: 

Reading is freedom. Reading is breath.  

Reading lets you see our world in a new way and it invites you into worlds you never want to leave.

Reading allows your spirit to dream.  

They say books are friends for life and I agree.  

The perfect universe of you only grows when you read.  

Stories are wings that help you soar everyday so find the books that speak to your spirit, to your heart and to your mind.

Stories are medicine. They heal. They comfort. They inspire. They teach.  

Bless the storytellers and the readers and listeners. Bless books. They are medicine for a better, brighter world.  

Mahsi cho. Thank you very much.  

Hans Christian Andersen

International Children’s Book Day was founded in 1967 and is celebrated on or around Hans Christian Andersen’s birthday, 2 April.  Hans Christian Andersen is best remembered for his fairy tales such as, The Little Mermaid, The Ugly Duckling and The Emperor’s New Clothes. Andersen’s unique and engaging stories have motivated children all over the world to read for pleasure.  

Take inspiration from Anderson this International Children’s Book Day and write your own fairy tales! Use the template from Teach Beside Me to help you get started. 

Ms Elinor Couper | Head of Library Services